The Greek noun autarkeia is formed from autos (self) and arkeō (to be sufficient). In Greek philosophy (Stoicism) it meant absolute self-sufficiency. Paul adopts the term but radically redefines it: Christian autarkeia is not independence from God but God-given sufficiency in all circumstances — the contentment that comes from knowing Christ.
Second Corinthians 9:8: 'having all that you need (autarkeian), you will abound in every good work.' 1 Timothy 6:6: 'godliness with contentment is great gain.' The one who has learned God-given sufficiency becomes a conduit of generosity. Philippians 4:11-13 reveals the secret: contentment is learned through suffering and sustained by Christ who gives strength.